Summary: The article, Learning without Borders, written by Sue Anderson explains her experience in her participation of the Schoolwires Greenleaf program which is a “virtual international classroom exchange”. Sue Anderson’s students were able to collaborate with other students around the world in Beijing at the Yu Yuan Tan Middle/High School about social studies topics that were related to her class. The curriculum was based on global awareness, global citizenship, diversity and multicultural understanding, and project-based learning. The program allowed the students to use problem-solving skills to overcome communication, cultural, and technological issues; issues that will have to be faced later on in the work force.
Q: Were
there any challenges during the collaboration process?
A: Yes. One of
the problems that were faced was the language barrier. The students realized
that they were unable to use slang words when e-mailing the Beijing students;
therefore, they had to be careful how they wrote in English due to the Beijing
students needing to translate the e-mails. Another problem that was faced was
the technological differences. The American students used Google Docs to
collaborate documents, but it is actually banned in China, so another format of
technology had to be used. The Beijing students also used Microsoft Word and
Power Point, but it was the older version and the American students were unable
to open any documents. Another problem was when the students tried to send
videos to each other, the file size was too large.
A: Yes. Sue Anderson mentions that she “conducted video and Skype conference calls” with the teachers in Beijing, though most of the communication was done by e-mail. As a teacher, the program enables teachers from around the world to collaborate and share ideas and cultural insight. Her problem solving skills were enhanced as well because she helped her students with the issues that they faced. Also, even today she still communicates with the teachers and considers them friends.
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